Vauxhall Movano

Movano capable of grabbing a piece of the CV action

Upgrades have made the Movano a real contender in what is an ultra competitive sector, says Andrew Walker

The UK large van sector is incredibly competitive at the moment, and that situation has been made even more interesting with the introduction of an upgraded Movano, which I had the chance to test recently.

It comes in a wide number of variants, with four body lengths and three roof heights. The smallest of these is a panel van with the base powertrain specification and is priced at £27,745 (excl.VAT), with a long-wheelbase option with added height priced at £31,600 (excl. VAT). A number of models with Euro VId (Heavy Duty Cycle) engines are priced from £32,400 (excl. VAT), while the largest and most powerful of the panel van options is priced at £39,815 (excl. VAT). The new Movano is also available as a Double cab, priced from £33,250 (excl. VAT).

In panel van specification, the new Movano is available in L1H1 with every variation through to L4H3 sizing, while the Edition trim is consistent across the Movano range.

The new Movano has a modern front end with daytime running lamps incorporated into headlights, which flow into the new chrome cross bar added to the grille. Inside, the cockpit has also been updated, with a clutter-free dashboard and the touchscreen infotainment system now logically located in the centre of the dash. There’s also the option of a rear assist camera. And, with a total of 22 storage compartments and spaces, there’s plenty of room for everything and anything needed on a daily basis.

Vauxhall has revised the Movano’s powertrain line-up with all engine options Euro 6D Temp (Euro 6.2) or Heavy-duty Cycle Euro VId-specified. The 2.3-litre Turbo Diesel engine is consistent throughout the range, available with a number of power outputs.

The new engine portfolio consists exclusively of BiTurbo diesel power units. The 2.3-litre power units range from 131 PS to 180 PS and all comply with the strict Euro 6d-TEMP (light duty) or Euro V-Id (heavy duty) emissions standards. Compared with the previous generation, the engines boast five to 10 more PS and 20 to 40 Nm higher torque. The

top-of-the-line 180 PS BiTurbo develops maximum torque of 400 Nm.

Load volumes range from 7.8m3 to 17m3 and gross weights of 2,800kg to 4,500kg. Vauxhall offers a second row of four seats in the double-cab models which are available on L2H2 and L3H2 bodies.

The driver can get comfortable with the six-way adjustable driver’s seat which includes an armrest. All models offer steering columnmounted audio controls, electric windows, aux in with USB interface. For those who use their van as a mobile office there is Bluetooth connectivity which I tried, connected easily and thanks to the steel bulkhead, I could actually hold a conversation while driving. The infotainment screen is easy to use, but it’s a little small in such a large van and a bit of a reach when your driving.

The model tested was the 2.3 CDTi (150PS) Turbo and it’s a great around town. Add in light steering, taut gear changes and a high driving

position and you are good to go in any urban environment.

The three-seat cab was comfortable and the switches, seat covers and plastics are well put together and look built to last. On the motorway the engine is fantastic, with loads of power for overtaking. Cruise control is helpful on the motorway, taking the pain put of a long trip. It’s easy to engage the cruise and it works well.

Despite its size, though, it’s an easy, large van to drive full stop and is surprisingly agile around town.

Claimed fuel economy is 47.8mpg on the combined cycle. We achieved 40.2mpg in a week in the Movano, driving alone and unladen, so you can make up your own mind about this. We thought this was actually pretty good for a large van in this category and certainly no better or worse than the diesel competition. CO2 emissions are 156g/km. List price for our test van was £32,710 + VAT.

Finally, remember the aftersales: there are plenty of Vauxhall Heavy Van Centres to look after your after sales needs and servicing.

VERDICT Huge improvements everywhere: fuel economy, more tech and better safety features. Better range of engines and load capacities, and well priced, starting from £27, 745 ex VAT